Did you know that May is National Arthritis Awareness Month? It’s the perfect opportunity to pause and learn more about Arthritis and the medical aid available to those living with it. Believe it or not, millions of Americans are affected by some form of Arthritis. In fact, the blanket term is used to describe more than 100 different rheumatic conditions and diseases.
Because aches and pains are considered a normal part of aging, many individuals facing rheumatic difficulties don’t seek treatment. Instead, they assume their pain is something they have to live with. While it makes sense to give new aches a few days to resolve themselves, we encourage clients experiencing persistent or severe pain in the joints, muscles or bones to consult their physician, who might send them to a rheumatologist. These specialists are trained to determine the source of swelling and pain, identify musculoskeletal disorders and treat complex rheumatic conditions.
If aging adults are encouraged to explore the source of their discomfort, they might discover a method of treatment that leads to ache-free living or healthy pain management. In most cases, early diagnosis can help prevent joint damage over the long term, so it’s always worth a try.
At the very least, learning more about Arthritis this month will help individuals experiencing symptoms understand how it can impact different areas of their lives. That knowledge, paired with medical help, leaves them armed to live a life that’s healthy, happy and fulfilled.
In honor of National Arthritis Awareness Month, here are some of our favorite resources related to rheumatic conditions:
Living with Arthritis
Here, the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases has provided an easy-to-read fact sheet about common forms of Arthritis and their symptoms. They also explain ways doctors might help and medications that could be prescribed.
Arthritis Foundation
The Arthritis Foundation’s website is a wealth of useful information for individuals facing rheumatic conditions. In addition to information about types of Arthritis and their treatments, they share resources for community support and information on advocacy and research.
Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Last year on our blog, we explained how Rheumatoid Arthritis, one of the most common arthritic conditions, is detected. We also offered suggestions for managing it and a list of treatments that might be considered after diagnosis.
Are you or someone you love suffering from Arthritis? What are you doing to ease the pain?
About the Author
As President and CEO of CMSS, Bill Lowe is responsible for the organization’s operations and direction, and reports to the board of directors for oversight. Bill is concurrently the Chairman of the Board of Directors for Symbria. He has worked with CMSS for over 20 years, taking his first position as the CFO in 1989. Bill holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and a Masters in Business Administration from Northern Illinois University, and is also a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator and a certified Retirement Housing Professional Fellow.
